Work by newly emerging voices from black and ethnic minority communities will be unveiled in Coventry Belgrade’s fourth annual New Black Showcase.
Developed as part of the theatre’s BME writers’ programme Critical Mass, New Black Showcase offers writers aged 18 and over the opportunity to have their work performed at the Belgrade by a company of professional actors.
This year’s showcase will incorporate readings of two plays focusing on the female experience: Theresa Ikoko’s Visiting Hours and Liz Mytton’s Red Mullet.
Visiting Hours features mothers and daughters coming into contact with the justice system and offers a new perspective on their experiences.
Red Mullet is a “humorous and moving story about the wives of high-flying men in a country on the verge of independence”. They are duty-bound to support their husband’s political agendas but friendships come under strain and they find themselves forced to face life-changing consequences.
Claire Simpson, general manager for community and education at the Belgrade, said, “for the past few years, the theatre has been working hard to build links with local BME groups through initiatives such as Critical Mass, Black Youth Theatre and our new Asian Youth Theatre.
“It’s our belief that the voices of marginalized communities are best heard when given a platform through high-quality productions and projects. Our 2013 Critical Mass programme attracted applications from 45 aspiring young writers, with 13 of those going on to achieve a place on the programme.
“By giving writers like Theresa and Liz the opportunity to see their work performed on a professional stage by a company of professional actors, we’re hoping to provide a platform for emerging artists, helping them to develop successful careers within the arts and other industries.”
Visiting Hours runs on Thursday and Saturday, 6 and 8 November, at 7PM while Red Mullet runs on Friday 7 November at 7PM and Saturday 8 November at 3PM. Both will be in the B2 auditorium. Admission is by donation.